Snyder said this week, during a special environmental message, that he wanted to make Michigan the "Trail State," and he announced his intention to create one signature trail that runs through both peninsulas, from Detroit to Ironwood.

Much of the trail already exists as state-owned or city-owned park land; Belle Isle, the crown jewel of Detroit parks (OK, it used to be a crown jewel, but has become dingy and neglected. But that's another story.) would begin the trail in Detroit.

It would wind through forest, prairies, open land and waterways, and offer recreation of all kinds to Michigan residents and visitors.

About 230 miles of the 599-mile trail will have to be converted to fit into the project, and Snyder has directed the Department of Natural Resources to begin working with local communities, the federal government and others who own or care for the gap lands about sewing them into the network. It wouldn't cost much, because Snyder said the state won't be purchasing anything. The idea is to get government, business and non-profit interests to work together to build the trail and to maintain it.

The tourism possibilities here are wondrous, as is the emphasis on preserving and enhancing Michigan's green assets.

It's worth noting that Snyder's trail plan gives at least a little more context to the discussions about the future of Belle Isle, showing how the plans to have Lansing manage the island fit into grander schemes statewide. It makes sense for the island to be an anchor in a statewide system that could attract people from around the globe.

Snyder is on to something good, and rich, and important. It's a key centerpiece of his administration, and could develop into a cornerstone of his legacy.